Minister for Arts, Culture & The Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, unveils Eight-Point Plan to Transform Nigeria’s Creative Sector
Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of the newly created Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, launched a visionary Eight-PointPlan today, aiming to solidify Nigeria’s standing as the cultural and entertainment capital of the World.
“With our greatest resource, the Nigerian People, at the forefront, we are championing a creative, cultural, and economic renaissance,” said Hannatu Musawa. “Our culture is a valuable currency, creativity is the new oil, and innovation is our future.”
The key highlights of the Minister’s Eight-Point Plan include:
1. Nigeria Destination 2030: A national initiative to unify and bolster the arts, culture, and creative economy sectors. This manifesto seeks to increase jobs, attract tourists, and offer more local opportunities over the short, medium and long term leading to achievement of overarching goals by 2030.
2. Skills Development: Comprehensive training programs will be introduced to ensure professionals are equipped to shine in their fields.
3. Policy Framework & Intellectual Property: The focus will be on creating and refining policies and an enabling environment, emphasizing intellectual property rights protection to encourage innovation and creativity within the creative economy space as well as retain significant IP and revenue streams in Nigeria.
4. Strategic Collaboration: With a firm governance structure, the ministry will collaborate with government agencies, the private sector, academia, and artists. The establishment of a Creative Economy Advisory Council will further solidify these efforts.
5. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Aimed at attracting investment, these partnerships will support the development of infrastructure, tech, and innovation hubs.
6. Growth Targets: Aiming for Nigerian creative industries to be among the top 20 globally in contributions to GDP, job creation, and poverty reduction by 2050.
7. Digital Transformation & Infrastructure: Investment in modern facilities, transportation, and technology, with a keen focus on integrating arts and culture into the digital domain.
8. Cultural Heritage Preservation: Initiatives will be put in place to safeguard Nigeria’s vast cultural heritage, fostering tourism and economic growth while ensuring its continuity for upcoming generations.
Hannatu Musawa also teased various upcoming projects, such as creative hubs, a Nigeria cultural expo, a national entertainment center, and much more. She expressed her dedication to repatriating significant national heritage artifacts, including the renowned Benin bronzes. “For a brighter, creative, and innovative Nigeria, we move forward with an unwavering spirit of collaboration and determination. Our rich and unique identity deserves to shine on the global stage,” she added
Ewekoro Local Government Strengthens Ties with Community and Celebrates Unity at Recent Events
Ewekoro, Ogun State – December 7, 2024
In a series of significant events underscoring the commitment to community welfare and development, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Ewekoro Division, led by Division Officer Mrs. Oyebade Folukemi, paid a congratulatory visit to the newly elected Chairman of Ewekoro Local Government Council, Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa. This visit, which took place on December 2, 2024, marked a crucial step towards strengthening collaboration between the NSCDC and local government officials, aimed at enhancing the safety and security of the Ewekoro community.
Mrs. Oyebade expressed her congratulations to Hon. Adesina, emphasizing the NSCDC’s commitment to supporting local governance and ensuring a secure environment for residents. The visit served as a platform to discuss strategies for improving safety measures in the area, illustrating the proactive approach of the NSCDC in fostering a safe community for all.
In another notable event, market women from Ewekoro Local Government paid a visit to Hon. Adesina to express their gratitude for his administration’s efforts in empowering local traders. Under his leadership, significant projects have been implemented, including the construction of modern market facilities, such as the 183 lock-up shops at Arigbajo Market. These developments have greatly enhanced the socio-economic activities of market women, contributing positively to their livelihoods and the overall well-being of the community.
Led by Alhaja Ejire, the head of market women, the delegation thanked Hon. Adesina for his unwavering support and commitment to their cause. The discussions during the visit focused on exploring further collaboration to address the challenges faced by market women, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to people-oriented projects that uplift the community.
The strong presence of local leaders during this visit, including Vice-chairman Alhaja Abisola Nuratu Aliyu and other key administration officials, highlighted the unified effort to promote the welfare of Ewekoro’s residents. The Chairman’s administration has earned recognition for its initiatives that significantly impact the lives of market women and the broader community.
Additionally, the recent Obada Day 2024 celebration, held on December 1 at Owiwi Primary School in Obada Ward 10, showcased the unity and love within the communities of Obada Town. Hon. Sikiru Adesina joined dignitaries such as HRM Oba Olufemi Solaja, the Olu of Obada Town, and HRH Oba Kasimawo Ogundare, the Olu of Opelifa, to celebrate this significant event. The celebration emphasized the importance of love, unity, and progress in Ewekoro Local Government, Ogun State, and Nigeria as a whole.
In a related announcement, the Ewekoro Local Government has informed all revenue consultants that the 2025 Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) Sales of Form will commence on December 2 and close on December 13, 2024. Those interested in securing a position are encouraged to purchase the form during this period.
These recent engagements and celebrations reflect Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa’s commitment to fostering community spirit, enhancing local governance, and promoting economic growth in Ewekoro Local Government. As the administration continues to work hand-in-hand with various stakeholders, there is a renewed sense of optimism for the future development of the community.
FG Issues Alert on New COVID-19 Variant XEC Found in 29 Countries
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has raised an alert on the new XEC COVID-19 variant, urging heightened surveillance across Nigeria’s healthcare facilities.
The XEC variant, first identified in Australia, has now been detected in 29 countries and is showing a growth advantage over existing strains. Health experts are concerned about its potential impact on public health.
The warning was conveyed in a letter dated December 5, addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. O.N. Anuma.
“I am directed to inform you of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant which has already spread to 29 countries globally. This variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health,” the letter read.
Call to Action
Dr. Anuma emphasized the need for immediate vigilance in hospitals nationwide.
“Alert systems should be activated immediately for a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with COVID-like symptoms,” he said.
The ministry also stressed the importance of collaboration among health institutions to monitor the variant and share critical data.
“We urge you to work with relevant stakeholders to implement enhanced monitoring protocols and ensure timely information sharing with the Federal Ministry of Health for effective response strategies.”
Global Spread and Implications
First identified in Germany in June, the XEC variant has since been reported in France, the United States, the UK, Denmark, and other countries. Over 600 cases have been recorded globally, with scientists noting that while the variant has mutations that may aid its spread, vaccines are expected to remain effective in preventing severe cases.
Bunmi Olu: A trailblazing woman and epitome of excellence reaches another incredible milestone
~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi
A London-based Nigerian entrepreneur celebrates a landmark birthday with outstanding entrepreneurial acumen at fifty plus on Saturday, 7th December 2024
Bunmi Olu’s leadership style, marked by exceptional courage, integrity, and dedication to duty as founder of Dreamfo Widows and Widowers International NGO, has earned her a special place in the hearts of good Nigerians at home and abroad, and indeed the world at large
Your tireless pursuit of excellence in public service is a beacon of inspiration, and your remarkable legacy amongst women of virtue in the public sphere continues to inspire others to achieve greatness
As a trailblazing woman of substance, you continue to demonstrate remarkable courage in all your endeavors, while also committing to develop a responsible management system that ensures the efficient utilization of international resources at Dreamfo, a hub for thousands of widows and widowers
Your project vision has showcased considerable positive impact on womanhood and society as a whole, and it remains impressive. Your ability to make substantial contributions to the growth of future generations and create employment opportunities to some Dreamfo widows and widowers is indeed exceptional and second to none
Ma, your accomplishments as a distinguished woman in the battalion serve as a testament to your lasting influence on the community and its residents
Your exemplary work ethic and steadfast commitment to the well-being of the people have won their trust and appreciation, a reflection of your exceptional leadership
I’m delighted to extend my sincerest congratulations to you on this momentous birthday occasion
May this birthday celebration continue to motivate you to reach greater heights of achievement and service to humanity
Congratulations once more ma! May God continue to bless and guide you. Amen!
Oluwaseun Fabiyi a seasoned journalist writes from Lagos